OTC receives $120,000 grant from 3M Gives Foundation

Ozarks Technical Community College will enhance its Industrial Systems Technology curriculum thanks to a $120,000 grant from the 3M Gives Foundation. The grant, written in partnership with Springfield Public Schools and the local 3M-Springfield Plant, will allow OTC to purchase a new training system and affiliated software. The grant will also support continuing education workshops for college instructors and regional manufacturing career-mentor partnerships for students.

Additionally, the grant will help OTC develop a new program in partnership with Springfield Public Schools. Beginning in the fall of 2017, SPS middle schoolers will have the opportunity to explore regional manufacturing career options. The new program will teach local eighth graders how to program, operate and maintain electromechanical and automated equipment in a variety of industrial and manufacturing settings.

“With manufacturing jobs in high demand both locally and nationwide, our collaboration with 3M and Springfield Public Schools will help younger students view manufacturing as a viable and lucrative career option before they enter high school.” said Matt Hudson, OTC dean of technical education.

“This new partnership will allow our students to learn hands-on, job-ready skills at a young age,” said Marty Moore, SPS executive director of learning support and partnerships. “It will create more opportunities for our students to experience the world of manufacturing while there is still time to plan for the appropriate math and science courses in high school and beyond.”

The 3M Gives Foundation promotes stronger and more sustainable communities through financial investments, product donations and partnerships. The foundation supports three focus areas: education, community and environment.

“We are proud to support student interest in science, technology, engineering and math fields,” said Paul Doelger, 3M-Springfield Plant engineering maintenance supervisor. “Through our new partnership with OTC and Springfield Public Schools, we look forward to working together to build a diverse pipeline of future leaders in the manufacturing field.”